Finally, the rides and shops.
- Radiator Springs Racers was phenomenal. It was Test Track on a whole 'nother level. The AAs made it for me, honestly… Mater, Doc Hudson, anyone with the physically moving mouths were insane. I'm glad they were able to pull it off. The projected mouths on Lightning McQueen, Sally, Luigi, etc. were pretty lame in comparison, though. About the only thing I wish was that the ride were a tad bit longer. It all happened so quickly!
The other thing to watch out for is the breakdowns. Oh boy, everyone on the West Coast now gets to experience what EPCOT has dealt with since '97. I'm not sure if it was the ride system itself or problems in the dark ride portion or what. The first time we waited (posted 70 min., actually 90+) it broke down twice. Not sure what happened the first time but the second time it went down was while we were in the load area and they said the lighting went off in the whole building. They just kept sending empty cars around for 20 mins. or so until the lights came back on everywhere. We also tried to ride it again before World of Color, but it was down. We came back after and it was running, but some of the animatronics weren't working like the second Mater and the tractors.
- Luigi's Flying Tires was a blast - I don't care what anyone else says. Those things can move! And it's just a really fun ride. Super nice queue, too. The lines will suck, but it's worth a visit.
- Mater's Junkyard Jamboree was also a highlight. The queue was well done, the songs are cute, and it's hilarious to hear Larry the Cable do the Spanish safety spiel.
- We visited every shop. All were nice, but nothing really stood out besides Ramone's. Sarge's Surplus Hut was cool and had a lot of Cars toys and other merchandise. Radiator Springs Curious was extremely disappointing as it was just generic Disney Parks crap and pins. Ramone's had some cool land-specific clothing and such, which was nice. I want to pick up a shirt from there sometime.
All in all it was a fantastic time. We spent a good 4+ hours in Cars Land, so it will definitely take some time in the day to get everything done. Was it a "Potter swatter" like everyone talks about? I dunno - I love Potter, but I've only been once and I need a second look at it (next Sunday, actually
) to decide. They both do their job with great theming and rides, though.
And Buena Vista Street was just awesome. I just wish we could have another chance to stroll through there with zero crowds and strollers (seriously, I don't think I noticed a single stroller around there yesterday). It's a very lovely place with great shops and eateries.
